TA Luxe Review: Le Barthelemy, St. Barts
We know how much you loved our extensive guide to St. Barts, the sun-kissed jewel of the Caribbean. With its French flair, turquoise waters, and sandy beaches, St. Barts holds a special place in our hearts. Just as it does in yours.
Today, we want to take you a bit deeper into the island. We've covered a broad range of St. Barts' offerings. Now it's time to give you an inside look at one of the island’s premier accomodations.
Welcome to Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa - our favorite resort on the island, and soon, perhaps yours too. Nestled in the serene Grand Cul-de-Sac, Le Barthélemy is not just a hotel. It's an experience of St. Barts' luxury, its relaxed lifestyle, and, most importantly, its warmth. In this post, we're going to take you through its enchanting quarters, introduce you to its remarkable amenities, and explain why this hotel exemplifies the best of St. Barts. Buckle up, folks. It's going to be a luxurious ride!
Where is it?
Settled on the edge of a Marine Reserve, Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa's location is truly a wonder. It's nestled in the tranquil bay of Grand Cul-de-Sac, a spot renowned for its turquoise waters and a favorite among kite surfers and sailors alike. This northeastern coastal stretch of St. Barts offers visitors an irresistible invitation to relax and indulge in the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
The hotel is surrounded by a beach, a lagoon, and the vibrant hues of the Caribbean Sea, providing breathtaking panoramic views and immediate access to a variety of watersports. You can start your day with a leisurely swim in the warm, crystal clear waters or dive into an exploration of the marine life inhabiting the surrounding coral reefs.
Because the beach is located in a tranquil lagoon the water is still and warm. It’s one of the best swimming beaches on the island.
Beyond its aquatic allure, Le Barthélemy's location is also conveniently close to Gustaf III Airport and the island's capital, Gustavia, making accessibility a breeze. Despite this proximity to the bustling town center, the hotel maintains an atmosphere of serene seclusion. Whether you're seeking thrilling water adventures or just craving the calming whispers of the sea, Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa's prime location is the perfect gateway to the best of St. Barts.
How are the rooms?
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa brilliantly incorporates St. Bart's natural beauty into its design aesthetics. Internationally acclaimed designer Sybille de Margerie has envisioned a space where French elegance gracefully blends with the island's laid-back charm. The result is a stunning amalgamation of design elements that pay homage to the local culture and landscape, while promoting a feeling of luxury and tranquility.
The hotel's architectural design is harmonious with its surroundings, leveraging open spaces and a soothing color palette inspired by the sea, sand, and sky. Expansive windows and private terraces attached to each room offer stunning panoramas, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor splendor.
The rooms and suites, ranging from the Classic Room to the jaw-droppingly beautiful Beachfront Villa, exude understated luxury. Each room is a private sanctuary equipped with top-of-the-line amenities, including plush beds, rain showers, and high-quality bath products. They are adorned with artwork that mirrors the island's vibrancy and furnished with a careful selection of comfortable and stylish pieces.
When you travel abroad you can’t always expect rooms to have all the comforts of home, but Le Barthelemy is the exception.
How’s the food?
At Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, the culinary experiences are expertly crafted to match the rhythm of the day, providing distinct dining options for each meal.
Breakfast at Aux Amis kicks off your day with a lavish spread of French and American breakfast classics. Enjoy freshly baked pastries, local fruits, or opt for a hot dish from the a la carte menu. Savor your morning coffee, which is excellent, with a breathtaking view of the lagoon.
Lunch is best enjoyed at Le Turquoise beach bar and grill. Here, light fare, including fresh salads, grilled seafood, and flavorful sandwiches, is served. The casual beachside setting allows you to enjoy your meal with your toes in the sand, a tropical cocktail in hand.
Dinner at Aux Amis is an elevated affair. The dinner menu, orchestrated by Chef William Girard, combines the richness of French cuisine with Caribbean flavors. Each dish is a testament to the Chef’s creativity and the island’s bounty. Dine in the elegant indoor setting or opt for an alfresco table to enjoy the balmy island breeze.
Post-dinner, head up to Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, the rooftop bar. It is an excellent place to unwind, offering a variety of digestifs, fine wines, and creatively concocted cocktails. Enjoy the cool evening air and panoramic views as you sip on your drink under the Caribbean sky.
How’s the pool?
One of my favorite spots at Le Barthélemy was the pool and poolside bar. Though not the largest I've seen, their size did not undermine their charm. Rather, the intimate scale added to the pool's allure, making it feel like my own personal oasis. The pool is beautifully designed, merging seamlessly with the turquoise lagoon in the distance.
The poolside bar served a wide array of beverages, from refreshing fruit juices to my favorite tropical cocktails. With the stunning pool on one side and the mesmerizing lagoon on the other, it was an idyllic spot to relax and unwind.
Conclusion and Tips
Like we mentioned in our St Barts guide, it’s important to get a car to truly enjoy the island.
Upgrade to the ocean view rooms, they’re a level up and it’s worth the price to get the beautiful views of the lagoon.
The concierge is available to text via Whatsapp, and they’re very well equipped to make suggestions and reservations.
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa was nothing short of extraordinary. The serene location, tasteful design, culinary delights, and above all, the warm hospitality, left an indelible impression on us. This St. Barts gem indeed provides an unmatched blend of luxury, comfort, and tranquility, making it an ideal escape for those seeking to indulge in the beauty of the Caribbean in style. Whether you're planning your next getaway or dreaming of one, Le Barthélemy should undoubtedly be on your radar. We can't wait for our next visit!